DAVID Holdsworth today heaped praise on Mansfield Town's 'caring' supporters saying: "Your support is absolutely tremendous.'

The Field Mill boss has been touched by the efforts of the Stags Supporters Association (SSA) who have raised £5,000 towards the cost of Luke Foster's transfer from Oxford United.

He feels the fans are making a real difference to the Blue Square Premier promotion push.

And he vowed that their backing would never be taken for granted while he is at the helm.

"Since I have been in charge, I have found the SSA very approachable and they have worked very closely with the club," said Holdsworth.

"They have understood the ethos that the chairman and myself have brought in and we are extremely grateful for what they have done for us.

"This donation is outstanding and they and the rest of the fans deserve our massive thanks.

"It is that kind of positivity and caring that can make a big difference and we can't build up the club without it.

"Too many times clubs don't appreciate their supporters, but I can assure the fans that the chairman, myself, the players and the staff do."

After Saturday's 4-0 win over Chester – Foster's debut – Holdsworth is now looking for Mansfield to rediscover their defensive solidity on the road.

The Stags have lost their last two away games at clubs chasing promotion – 3-0 at York and 2-0 at AFC Wimbledon – ahead of Saturday's visit to Forest Green.

He said: "We have had success on the road using certain formats. The disciplined performances in the wins at Crawley (2-0) and Gateshead (3-1) were wonderful and we have to look for that kind of focus."

Kyle Nix will continue his comeback from ankle surgery in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Chesterfield today. Striker John Shaw (hamstring) will not be risked, but may be back for Forest Green.

This article was taken from www.thisisnottingham.co.uk.